Conyers, Russia, wildfires: 5 things that happened Tuesday

by Eleanor Mueller, Sinclair Broadcast Group

In this photo provided by the Ventura County Fire Department, firefighters work to put out a blaze burning homes early Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif. Authorities said the blaze broke out Monday and grew wildly in the hours that followed, consuming vegetation that hasn't burned in decades. (Ryan Cullom/Ventura County Fire Department via AP)

Looking to get caught up on the news, fast? Here are five things that happened Tuesday, covered by the Sinclair stations you trust every day.

1. Conyers steps down after allegations

U.S. Rep. John Conyers, D-Mich., announced his retirement after a growing number of former staffers accused him of sexual misconduct.

2. International Olympic Committee bans Russia

The International Olympic Committee announced it will not allow Russians to participate in the 2018 games while representing their native land after revelations that the country orchestrated doping in 2014.

The athletes may still compete; however, they must do so as "neutral athletes."

3. Southern California wildfires consume acres

Fanned by winds, explosive wildfires raced across thousands of acres of California land, forcing the evacuation of more than 30,000.

4. Supreme Court hears cake case

The U.S. Supreme Court weighed whether a Colorado baker should be allowed to decline to bake a cake for a same-sex couple because it goes against his religious beliefs.

5. Family files Air Force claims

One month after a gunman opened fire inside a Texas church, the family of four of the victims has filed claims against the Air Force.

The agency failed to report the shooter's violent history, an oversight which allowed him to purchase the gun used to commit the murders.